Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Gyeombaek, South Korea, is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing the damaging effects of sun exposure. With a climate characterized by hot, humid summers typical of the Cwa zone, the risk of UV-related issues, such as sunburn and long-term skin damage, increases significantly. Between 10 AM and 2 PM, UV levels can soar to 10—on the higher end of the scale—making it crucial for residents and visitors to stay informed and take protective measures. Awareness of these levels not only helps safeguard your skin health but also enhances your overall outdoor experience in this vibrant city.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually transitions from a mild 1 at 07:00 to an invigorating 3 by 08:00. The peak UV intensity hits its stride between 12:00 and 13:00, reaching a striking 10, a clear call for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, tapering off to 8 at 14:00, 6 at 15:00, and eventually settling to a gentle 2 by 17:00. By evening, the UV levels dip back down, returning to a safe 1, indicating it's time to relax and enjoy the cooler, softer light of sunset.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. From March to August, the UV Index escalates from 7 to a peak of 12, indicating high to extreme exposure risks. Notably, April and May present very high risks, while June, July, and August reach extreme levels, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes during peak sunlight. Conversely, the UV Index drops significantly in the fall and winter, with January and December reporting moderate levels. Given these fluctuations, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions, especially during the high-risk months of April through August. We advise wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize UV exposure and protect skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Incheon UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Seoul UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Daejeon UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Daegu UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Busan UVI | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Gyeombaek | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |